Matildas lose opening Algarve Cup match to Sweden

The Matildas have lost 1-0 to Sweden in a poor showing to begin their Algarve Cup campaign in Portugal.

Australia had the ascendancy for most of the first half but squandered chances before world number eight Sweden re-grouped to dominate the group C match at Albufeira.

Kyah Simon had the Matildas’ best first-half opportunity when Perth Glory’s Sam Kerr coasted past two defenders to find the Sydney FC attacker, who blazed her shot over the bar after half-an-hour.

The Matildas’ defence will be a focal point for improvement in future matches at the invitational tournament, with the Swedes catching their opponents napping after the break but missing golden chances to begin the half.

Sweden broke the deadlock in the 60th minute, with captain Lotta Shelin charging down the right side and beating defender Elise Kellond-Knight before finishing at a tight angle.